Factors promoting health empowerment of young people: a qualitative pre-interventional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Angata, an intervention research project led by the regional instance of health education and promotion (Ireps) of Burgundy-Franche-Comté, aims to strengthening the autonomy and decision-making ability of vulnerable youth regarding their health. It is implemented in several facilities. The goal is to improve well-being and quality of life of young people benefiting from socio-educational measures by working with them and the professionals in their living environments. The objective of the study presented was to analyze the factors promoting health empowerment of young people, prior to this intervention, in the Employment Integration Facility (Epide) of Belfort. Methods Interviews were conducted with 8 young people and 13 professionals to explore their representations regarding well-being, nutritional health (eating habits, nutrition, physical activity), self-esteem and physical appearance. The determinants of health, lifestyles and organization in the living environment as well as the biographical pathways of young people were also collected. Results The Epide, structured on a military model, welcomes young people out-of-school, without qualifications and with complex life courses. The Epide can be seen as a functional community whose whole effort is dedicated to the goal of young volunteers leaving for a job or professional training. The support provided by educators (professional social or former military) is focused on building skills and restoration of self-esteem. Critical consciousness develops over time spent within the structure. The factors promoting empowerment within this strict framework are numerous, but young people’s participation in the decisions taken within the structure remains at the solicitation stage. Conclusions The framework provided at the Epide allows an environment conducive to the process of individual empowerment. These leverage can be mobilized to reinforce health empowerment of youth during the Angata project. Key messages An empowering educational environment, even strict, can foster the health empowerment of young people subject to vulnerabilities. The allowed level of participation remains an important factor to consider in order to fully promote health empowerment of young people.